Flemish beef stew, Belgium’s classic beer-braised dish
Le Pré Salé ·
After mussels and chips, Flemish beef stew is perhaps the most iconic dish in Belgian cuisine.
Beef, beer and time
Chunks of seared beef, softened onions and a dark or abbey beer, gently simmered for several hours. The meat becomes meltingly tender and the sauce rich and thick.
The secret: spiced bread and mustard
A slice of spiced bread spread with mustard and placed on top of the stew thickens the sauce and gives it its distinctive sweet-and-sour balance.
What should you serve it with?
Traditionally with chips, sometimes with mash or steamed potatoes. And, of course, a Belgian beer.
Frequently asked questions
- Which beer is best for Flemish beef stew?
- A slightly sweet dark or abbey beer gives the sauce the most rounded flavour.
